Burkina Faso is a country located in the mid of West Africa’s “hump” between Sahara desert and coastal rain forests. The central region of Burkina Faso lies on a savanna plateau, 650 – 1000 ft above sea level with fields, brush and scattered trees. It’s neighbors’ are- Mali, Niger, Benin, Togo, Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. The residents of Burkina Faso are known as Burkinabé. Men and Women from Burkina Faso works mainly in south (Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana) as paid labor.

Burkina Faso gained independence from France in 1960. The government instabilities during 70s and 80s lead to multiparty elections in 90s. The Burkina Faso is a semi presidential republic. The President is elected for a five years term. The Parliament of Burkina Faso consists of two chambers (lower house and upper house), a constitutional chamber composed of 10 members, and an economic and social council.

The climate in Burkina Faso is tropical. There occurs two seasons- Rainy seasons in which Burkina Faso receives 24 to 35 inches of rain; and Dry season in which Harmattan, a hot dry wind blows from Sahara. Burkina Faso is rich in natural resources including marble, phosphates, salt, pumice and small deposits of gold.

Burkina Faso is not a stronger economy; Agriculture accounts for 32% of GDP. Around 80% men and women work in fields. The main crops grown in Burkina Faso are- sorghum, pearl millet, maize (corn), peanuts, rice and cotton. A large part of the economic activity of the country is funded by international aid.

Burkina Faso hosts the International Art and Craft Fair, Ouagadougou, better known as SIAO, Le Salon International de L Artisanat de Ouagadougou, one of the most important African handicraft fairs.